1. The Inter-State Council
2. The National Security Council
3. Zonal Councils
How many of the above were established as per the provisions of the Constitution of India?
Explanation
Statement 1 is correct: The Inter-State Council was established under Article 263 of the Constitution of India. This article empowers the President to create a council to inquire into and advise on disputes between states or between the Union and states, and to promote cooperative federalism. The Inter-State Council was constituted in 1990 by a Presidential order based on this constitutional provision.
Statement 2 is incorrect. The National Security Council (NSC) is a non-constitutional body formed in 1998 by an executive decision of the Government of India. It serves as the apex agency to advise the Prime Minister on matters related to national security and strategic interests but has no basis in the Constitution.
Statement 3 is incorrect. The Zonal Councils were created under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, which is a statutory act passed by Parliament, not a constitutional provision. These councils facilitate cooperation and coordination among states grouped into zones.